I came across an interesting blog promotion site today. It’s called RSS Hugger. RSShugger.com was created by Collin Lahay. The site allows us bloggers to promote our blog and hopefully create more reading traffic. And of course if you have been following Carmen’s blog from it’s creation a few months ago to now, we have been working hard to create a reliable real estate resource and a popular “voice” of our community.

The mission of this post is to promote RSS Hugger and in return promote homesfortmill.com. Not a bad trade. I have seen many fellow Realtor® blogs talking about RSS Hugger so we joined the bandwagon too. It’s an interesting marketing concept. To see our blog lisitng on RSShugger click this link rsshugger.com/homesfortmill.com. Thanks for reading and listening

Carmen sent me a link the other day for a website called housingmarketfacts.com. So I’ve now become a real estate website critic during my lunch. Should I say two thumbs up?

Anyway, the new website is by the National Association of Realtors® or Realtor.com. The website is a resource promoting the benefits of owning a home. The single web page is populated with home ownership facts, many resource links, and an embedded welcome video with a women walking on your screen to say hello. I was bothered by the fact the women stays on the screen after delivering her welcome message and just stands in place staring at you. OK, moving on.
Here are a few housingmarketingfacts.com or NAR home ownership highlights:

• A home investment could yield you a return 5 times that of the stock market.
• Home owners stay in a home on an average of 6 years. (We have not hit 6yrs yet)
• Financing info links.
• Property search links.
• Research local school and neighborhood links.
• A home equity calculator.
• And of course, facts on why Realtors® add value to the home selling or buying process.

I found an interesting link to Freddie Mac’s mortgage rate history chart by month since 1971. Here is a brief summary of the last 36 years based on a 30 yr fixed rate (average for the year and points varied):

• 1972 – 7.38%.
• 1979 – 11.20% first time over 10% since 1971.
• 1981 – 16.04% high point.
• 1991 – 9.25% finally came down under 10%.
• 2003 – 5.83% bottom.
• 2007 – 6.34%.
• Today’s rate is 6.04%.

I bought my first home in 1983 and I thought 13% was good. The site seems helpful so I’ve added the housingmarketfacts.com link to the blog links section for your future use. You can turn off the sound of the welcome lady but you can’t make her leave.

Come to an open house Saturday Feb 9, 2008 from 1 pm to 4 pm at 1924 Newberry Lane in Tega Cay, SC. 29708.

BEAUTIFUL HOME ON LARGE 1/2 ACRE LOT!
Bedroom:4, Bathroom:2.5, 3175 Sq. Ft. $449,000

For a virtual tour click the Obeo tour icon.

My name is Carmen Miller and I am proud to be a Realtor® with Century 21 First Choice. Real Estate today is an evolving market that has left many buyers and sellers feeling frustrated, confused and somewhat frightened. As a Real Estate Professional I can answer your questions, provide you with much needed facts, and empower you with a sense of control which will in turn allow you make decisions to sell or purchase a home with confidence. Your home should never be seen as purely a transaction, each home buyer and seller has individual needs and requirements. I strive to meet those needs and provide you with the outstanding personal attention you deserve.

Selling a home in today’s market means differentiating yourself from the competition, it means pricing correctly, it means aggressive marketing, and it means having one chance to impress. I make sure you get it right, the first time.

As a home buyer this is possibly the best opportunity in years to be in the driver’s seat. You have a Buyers Market Setting; inventory to choose from, lower interest rates to benefit from, and pricing that reflects competition.

I look forward to meeting your real estate needs today so that you can move forward with your goals for tomorrow!

Carmen Miller a Realtor in Fort Mill, Tega Cay Sc area has made a change in domain names to better position her real estate blog in the fast past internet blog market. Carmen’s old blog address was http://www.carmensmiller.com/wordpress. Her real estate blog address has changed to http://www.homesfortmill.com. Please make a note of the new address.

WBT Radio based in Charollete, NC reported this week that US home values plunged 8.4%. But the Charlotte area maintained a plus 3% home value growth. The Charoltte Metro area includes Fort mill, tega cay and Lake Wylie SC.This information was based on data through November 2007 sales. Experts predict some softening of values in the coming months in our area. Charlotte was one of 20 cities in the home value study. Only 3 cities out of the 20 saw rising home values.

Its a buyers market even in Fort Mill or Tega Cay, SC. I found a few tips I want to share with my home sellers.  

Below is a reprint of an article by David Sobel and RISMEDIA. The article has good tips for sellers on how they can increase curb appeal to make sure buyers come in to view their home.

By David Sobel

RISMEDIA, Jan. 17, 2008-You’ve all had that experience with a client where you drive up to a house and they don’t even want to go inside. It’s an immediate “un-appeal.” You may know the inside of the house shows much better, but you just can’t convince them to spend the time to even go inside. In today’s market where lots of choices in housing are available to the buyer, why should they?

Here are some easy, inexpensive fixes that will help create that outside appeal and get you one, giant step further to a sale.

1. Paint or stain the front and garage doors, especially if they show any weathering. These are the first visuals where a potential buyer focuses. If garage doors are metal and dented, they may need to be replaced.

2. Any old, basically abandoned sheds or small structures, must be removed, the area graded and the grass replaced.

3. Change any dated, outside light fixtures.

4. Fix that driveway. If it is blacktop, make sure cracks and crumbling areas are dug out and filled and then the whole driveway sealed. If it is cement, have large cracks filled and repaired professionally. The buyer must at least feel they can drive the moving truck in confidently!

5. Make sure landscaping bricks are in their proper placement. Mowing, weed-whipping sometimes moves them and this is something the homeowner rarely notices, but makes the property look unsightly.

6. Fill in bare dirt under large shade trees. Plant shade-tolerant plants in defined planters or groundcover. Landscape properly for that area.

7. All landscaping beds should be cleaned out and updated for the time of year it is in your region. Place new bedding material down.

8. Have trees and bushes pruned and trimmed. If a bush or tree is looking old or about to expire, remove it and replace it with a similar size and type if you can. If there is a tree limb(s) over the roof, have them removed.

9. If the house needs painting and a full paint job is not in the cards; have it touched up professionally in the worst, most visible spots. Paint shutters and fix them if they are hanging crooked. At least this may help get your client in the front door, even if they negotiate a full paint job into the sale later.

10. If the house is sided, have it power-washed and have gutters and windows cleaned. Window cleaning inside and out makes the house feel updated and fresh, rather than old and dingy.

11. Make sure grass is in good shape, weeds are removed, trimming done regularly. So many sellers fall down on this job the minute the house is listed, and this is critical to selling a house quickly, especially one where the owners have already moved out. In snowy climates, removal must be done regularly too. If owners have moved out, make sure you have an HWA Home Warranty to re-assure buyers.

12. Keep garbage and recycle containers inside the garage, along with all toys and equipment. Make sure the garage is neat and organized. Painted walls and floors also go a long way in this area and are inexpensive to do.

13. Decks should be washed and repainted or re-sealed; plantings around them cleaned, weed-free and looking good. Patio furniture should be in excellent condition. Even though it is in the backyard, this is the area where the family can envision enjoying the warm days and the new yard.

14. If the roof has missing shingles and they can be replaced inexpensively, suggest this be done as it may save negotiation over a completely new roof. Roof repair needs and costs should be minor or the homeowner might as well replace the entire roof.

15. If the homeowner wants to do a bit more, suggest solar lights lining the driveway or installing a more attractive front door with lead glass inserts and replacing plain doorknobs with something more custom.

16. If you have an evening showing, make sure lights are on outside and inside the house. This is warm and inviting.

17. If it’s a holiday season, by all means decorate the home! Just like sugar cookies or vanilla scent on the inside of the house, this really says “it’s a home” and I can see myself enjoying life here! In the least, always have some greenery or flowers for the season on the front step or porch; even a birdbath with a little garden around it says home.

A link back to David’s Article

Walk the Walk What a Home Buyer Should Do before Closing – Fort Mill, SC.
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One of the final steps before the closing is called the final walk-through. This is an opportunity for you, the buyer, to see the property one last time before the money is exchanged and the purchase paperwork completed and filed.

It is important to note that this is not a home inspection. That should have been done weeks ago so there was adequate time to negotiate and address concerns. This is also not a time to nit-pick or back-track on agreed upon items. However, it is the right time for you to look! at the property and make sure it is in the condition you agreed to buy it. If repairs or upgrades were part of the deal, now is the time to make sure they were completed to your satisfaction.

Your real estate professional may or may not accompany you to the final walk-through. In either case, you will want to do the following:

• Open and close all windows, doors, garage doors
• Run all faucets and check for leaks
• Flush toilets
• Test outlets
• Check the basement, attic and crawl spaces
• Make sure that certain items as stipulated in the contract are left behind – i.e. light fixtures, window treatments, appliances, etc.
• Test the heating and air conditioning systems

In short, you want to make sure the home systems are operational and the seller has met the obligations laid out in the purchase contract.

If you do have a concern, bring it to the attention of your real estate professional and attorney. They can advise you ! about different courses of action. For instance, if it a significant expense, you may withhold money until a repair is made.

A final piece of advice: don’t skip the final walk-through. Because this is a busy time filled with packing and moving, some buyers are tempted to neglect this step. After all, you are so close to actually buying the home. In reality, the final walk-through is there to safeguard your investment.

This article is from Carmen’s Life at Home Newsletter January 2008 and Century 21. To see the entire newsletter, click here – Jan 08 life at home newsletter

On the Market for Fort Mill, SC
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What makes one home sell in a few weeks while another may linger on the market for what seems like seasons?

Well, each case is different, but it almost always boils down to one of these 4 factors.

Price – A home that is priced right will attract buyer attention. A fair and reasonable asking price that is in keeping with market demands will pique consumer interest and ultimately make the property more appealing.

Condition – Unless they are searching for an investment property, mo! st buyers are looking for a structurally sound home that has been well-maintained. In addition, a home that “shows well” is likely to sell quicker. This means the home is clean, well-kept, updated and appealing to today’s buyer.

Location – The better the location, the more likely the property will demand buyer attention. This could mean a single-family home in a charming town with an exemplary school system. Or it could mean a wonderful apartment in a great section of the city.

Market – Whether it is a “buyer” or “seller’s” also influences how long a property is up for sale. When the advantage is with the buyers, you may need to make allowances, such as

 a lower asking price or favorable terms to help your property attract a bid. Your seller agent is your greatest resource during your home sale. He or she can further explain how these factors will influence your particular listing.

This article is from Carmen’s Life at Home January 2008 Newsletter and Century 21. To see the entire newsletter click here – Jan 08 life at home newsletter

Carmen and I want to thank friends and clients who attended our “Dynamic Duo” themed New Years Year Party and helped bring in the New Year 2008. Here is a picture from the event.

ABSOLUTELY IMPRESSIVE LAKE SHORE HOME, 4990 SQ FT!
SOLD
Priced to sell this unbelievable home will impress! Five bedrooms with study or sixth bedroom, five full baths, located on a cul-de-sac street and wooded lot. Executive home offers formal living & dinning, great room with tinted windows, gourmet kitchen, stainless steel, granite counters, hardwood floors, dual stairs, large bonus room and ample storage. Walk out basement is a dream! Includes a guest room, full bath, home theater, granite bar w/sink, rec. room. All appliances convey. HURRY!
Virtual Tour Link

BEAUTIFUL HOME ON LARGE 1/2 ACRE LOT!
$449,000
Amazing home includes over $66,000 in custom upgrades! This is a

full brick, three car side load garage, four bedroom, two and a half bath with additional unfinished square footage ready to accommodate a fifth bedroom and third bath. Soaring ceilings, hardwood floors, gourmet kitchen, stainless steel appliances, corian counters, central vacuum system, surround sound, sprinkler system, wired for security system, beautiful custom lighting and fixtures. Cul-de-sac street leads to park and lake.
Virtual Tour Link

or see You Tube Video Tour below

I have 3 new Tega Cay, SC homes that will be listed in January 08. One of the new listings is on Lake Wylie. If you would like a sneak peak please email me at carmen.miller@century21.com

PRETTY AS A PICTURE 2006 SAUSSY!
$406,000

Golf Course View! Features 5 bedrooms, 4 full baths! Large enclosed bonus room with french doors, second floor master suite and bath with dual raised vanities, upgraded fixtures mirrors,& garden tub. Guest room & full bath on main floor. Large secondary bedrooms and closets galore! Bright kitchen with tile backsplash. $3,000 BUYER INCENTIVE WITH SIGNED CONTRACT BY DECEMBER 31, 2007.

Virtual Tour Link

Congradulations to Carmen. She has sold 4 of her home listings in the Lake Shore subdivision of Tega Cay, SC in the last 45 days. Not bad for a home market that folks are saying has softened.

Homes that have sold:

• 1883 Chestnut Hill
• 2020 Emerald Pines Drive
• 1615 Scotch Pine Lane
• 1933 Newberry Lane

LAKE SHORE
RESALE MARKET ANALYSIS
JANUARY- OCTOBER 15
2006 vs 2007
This information does not include any new costruction sales during that time frame. All numbers are based on homes sold and recorded through the Piedmont MLS system.

AVERAGE PRICE
2006- $351,752
2007- $412,933

HIGH PRICE
2006- $588,793
2007- $803,500

LOW PRICE
2006- $200,000
2007- $187,500

MEDIAN PRICE
2006- $315,000
2007- $375,000

AVERAGE $ PER SQFT
2006- $116.35
2007- $136.16

AVERAGE SALE PRICE % OF LIST PRICE
2006- 98.27%
2007- $95.94

AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET
2006- 89 days
2007- 107 days

With so many news stories telling us how much of a downtrend the real estate market has had in the last six months it is encouraging to see that our neighborhood is holding steady. Prices of homes have gone up, the selling price is still within a very short margin of last years numbers and while Days on Market has increased, the increase can be seen as a reflection of
the increase on prices and the actual time that it is taking our buyers to sell in other more challanged markets.

If you would like a more comprehensive market analysis on your home please call me 803 322-3479 or e-mail me at csmiller9@comporium.net.

See more local info on my website blog http://www.carmensmiller.com/BlogFrameset-6.html

A Picture of my booth at the October 2007 Tega Cay Fall Festival in Runde Park.

“THE RIGHT HOME IS NEVER AN ACCIDENT”

October – 2007

From Carmen Miller

I wanted to thank all of you again for your support. In the last three weeks I have listed three homes in Lake Shore subdivision of Tega Cay and sold a home in Heron Harbor in Tega Cay.

Your support and referrals are making my success possible. I am LOVING my career! Please continue to keep me in mind as you come across friends, neighbors, or relatives who may be in need of a Real Estate Professional.

If you haven’t had a chance yet please visit my web site at www.carmensmiller.com. I have a virtual tour posted for my listings and Market Information you may find helpful

Don’t Forget

Moving day is typically a high-stress occasion. No matter how organized and prepared you are, there is always a chance for a few things to fall through the cracks. Here are seven things to remember on the day of the big move.

1. Keep all valuables in your possession. This includes important paperwork, collections, family photos, jewelry, heirlooms, checkbooks, wallet/purse and the like. You do not want to hand these over to movers if possible.

2. Charge your mobile phone and keep it with you. In addition, take along your address book. And before the movers depart, be sure to exchange contact information.

3. Remember to ask for a copy of the inventory from the movers. You should also note the condition of your property before they leave.

4. Take out cash for incidentals. You may need to fill the gas tank or need money for lunch on the road. If the move is taking place within one day, you will want to tip the movers if the job is completed to your satisfaction. A good rule of thumb is $20 per mover.

5. Final payment for the moving company is traditionally due upon completion of the move.

6. Don’t forget medications. Like your valuables, it is better to keep medications for you and your family members or pets with you.

7. Check the house before you leave. Turn off the lights and turn down the thermostat and hot water heater. Give each room a final once over. Lock all the windows and doors.

CENTURY 21® AND THE UPROMISE ADVANTAGE

Because I’m a part of Century 21® First Choice- a participating Upromise office- you can receive up to $3,000 in college savings when you buy or sell through me. No additional fees, no gimmicks. Please visit www.upromise.com for more details and information.

Click to Download the October 2007 Newsletter

SOLD

Beautiful Executive Home in Tega Cay!

$10,000 Price Adjustment with acceptable offer and closing by December 31, 2007! Located in coveted Lake Shore subdivision in Tega Cay! Beautiful Executive Home. Five Bedrooms, or four with Study, both Formals, Gourmet Kitchen, bright Great Room, Master Suite on main, luxurious Master Bath, Bonus Room all on a large wooded lot. All brick construction, three car garage, granite counters, hardwood floors, designer fixtures & lighting, wired for speakers, alarm monitoring. Absolutely Gorgeous!

Offered by Carmen S Miller
Century 21 First Choice
Fort Mill, SC
803.322.3479
carmen.miller@century21.com

SOLD

Beautiful Home in Tega Cay!

Walk to the lake and parks. Located on a quiet street that backs to a beautiful wooded conservation area. This home features an open, bright floor plan with plenty of storage and numerous upgrades. Well maintained and decorated with designer touches throughout. Gorgeous site finished wood floors in the entry, family room, study, formal dinning, kitchen, powder room, and stairs. Large master suite with tray ceiling, beautiful master bath with double sinks, separate shower and garden tub.